Keep Mobile Robot Set-Up Easy With IDEC Safety Wheel Drive
Posted by Theresa Hoffman on Apr 10th 2025
Were you at ProMat recently? There was so much to see, with warehousing becoming increasingly automated. I was impressed by the new technology, paying close attention to everything from software and conveyor systems to the many variations of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) equipment.
We didn’t lose focus, though—we made sure to stop by our vendors’ booths to check out their latest products. Some vendors have product releases for later this year, but IDEC stood out with a great demo of their now-available EZWheel® Safety Wheel Drive (SWD) for AMR and AGV applications.
What’s the SWD All About?
The SWD is an all-in-one wheel drive solution designed to simplify robotic mobility while prioritizing safety and performance. Available in options like the SWD Core (gear motor) or SWD 125/150 (with different wheel sizes), its modular design offers the flexibility to find the perfect fit for any project!
Simple, Safe, Smart
The SWD is a compact, self-contained system that integrates a motor, battery, and control electronics into one complete unit, simplifying installation and reducing maintenance hassles. Equipped with a motor disconnect, brake control, direction control, and both safe limited speed and maximum speed features, the SWD ensures precise, secure, and efficient operation.
Its plug-and-play design with minimal wiring makes integration straightforward, enabling quick deployment while saving both time and money. With its powerful, smooth, and quiet performance, paired with excellent energy efficiency, it’s perfectly suited for applications with demanding mobility requirements.
Embedded PC with ROS
Are you familiar with the Robot Operating System (ROS)? Think of it as a translator or coordinator that sits in the "middle" of things. It’s an open-source framework designed to simplify the development of robot software. The SWD comes equipped with an embedded PC running ROS, making it easy to integrate with an existing operating system to make building and managing complex robotic systems straightforward.
Have questions? Contact us for more information on how the IDEC ez-Wheel® SWD can fit into your application!